101 Ways To Clean & Remove Grease From Wood Cabinets

Wood cabinets add warmth and beauty to any kitchen or living space. However, over time, grease and grime can accumulate on the surface, leaving your cabinets looking dull and dirty. Cleaning and removing grease from wood cabinets may seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tools, you can restore their natural shine and keep them looking pristine. In this article, we will explore 101 ways to clean and remove grease from wood cabinets, ranging from simple household ingredients to specialized cleaning products.

1. Vinegar: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the greasy areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a soft cloth.
2. Baking soda: Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently with a sponge, then rinse off with water.
3. Lemon juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto a cloth or sponge and rub it onto the grease stains. Lemon’s acidity helps break down the grease and leaves a fresh scent.
4. Dish soap: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water and use a sponge to scrub away the grease. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
5. Toothpaste: Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the greasy areas. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
6. Vegetable oil: Dab a small amount of vegetable oil onto a cloth and rub it onto the greasy spots. The oil helps dissolve the grease, making it easier to wipe away.
7. Baby oil: Similar to vegetable oil, baby oil can be used to remove grease from wood cabinets. Apply a small amount to a cloth and wipe down the greasy areas.
8. Cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch onto the grease stains and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe off the powder, and the grease should come off with it.
9. Club soda: Pour club soda onto a cloth and use it to wipe away grease marks. The carbonation in the soda helps lift the grease from the surface.
10. Salt: Mix salt with a little water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
11. Mineral spirits: Apply a small amount of mineral spirits to a cloth and gently rub it onto the greasy spots. This method should be used sparingly, as it can strip the wood’s finish.
12. Rubbing alcohol: Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently rub it onto the greasy areas. Follow up with a clean, damp cloth.
13. Ammonia: Mix one part ammonia with three parts water. Apply the solution to the grease stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
14. Hydrogen peroxide: Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the greasy spots and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe clean with a soft cloth.
15. WD-40: Spray a small amount of WD-40 onto a cloth and rub it onto the greasy areas. Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward.
16. Goo Gone: Apply Goo Gone to a cloth and gently rub it onto the grease stains. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
17. Orange oil: Apply a small amount of orange oil to a cloth and rub it onto the greasy spots. The natural oils in oranges help dissolve the grease.
18. Denatured alcohol: Dampen a cloth with denatured alcohol and gently rub it onto the greasy areas. Follow up with a clean, damp cloth.
19. Oven cleaner: Use an oven cleaner specifically designed for wood surfaces. Follow the instructions on the product and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
20. Krud Kutter: Apply Krud Kutter to a cloth and rub it onto the greasy spots. Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward.
21. Murphy’s Oil Soap: Dilute Murphy’s Oil Soap with water according to the instructions on the bottle. Apply the solution to the greasy areas and wipe clean.
22. Simple Green: Dilute Simple Green with water according to the instructions on the bottle. Apply the solution to the grease stains and wipe clean.
23. Citrus-based cleaners: Use a citrus-based cleaner designed for wood surfaces. Follow the instructions on the product and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
24. Commercial degreasers: Use a commercial degreaser specifically formulated for wood cabinets. Follow the instructions on the product and wipe clean.
25. TSP (trisodium phosphate): Mix TSP with warm water according to the instructions on the package. Apply the solution to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean.
26. Magic Eraser: Dampen a Magic Eraser with water and gently scrub the greasy areas. Rinse the eraser frequently and wipe clean.
27. White chalk: Rub white chalk onto the grease stains and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
28. Tea tree oil: Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the greasy areas and wipe clean.
29. Pine-Sol: Dilute Pine-Sol with water according to the instructions on the bottle. Apply the solution to the grease stains and wipe clean.
30. Baby wipes: Use baby wipes to gently clean grease from wood cabinets. Make sure the wipes are free from any harsh chemicals.
31. Coffee grounds: Mix coffee grounds with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean.
32. Olive oil: Dab a small amount of olive oil onto a cloth and rub it onto the greasy areas. Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward.
33. Beeswax: Apply a thin layer of beeswax to the wood cabinets, focusing on the greasy areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with a soft cloth.
34. Glycerin: Mix equal parts of glycerin and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the greasy spots and wipe clean.
35. Wood polish: Use a wood polish specifically designed for cleaning and shining wood surfaces. Follow the instructions on the product and wipe clean.
36. Heat: Apply a warm, damp cloth to the greasy areas and let it sit for a few minutes. The heat helps loosen the grease, making it easier to wipe away.
37. Hairdryer: Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to warm the greasy spots. Wipe clean with a soft cloth.
38. Steam cleaner: Use a steam cleaner specifically designed for wood surfaces. Follow the instructions on the product and wipe clean.
39. Microfiber cloth: Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and gently scrub the greasy areas. Rinse the cloth frequently and wipe clean.
40. Tackle grease immediately: Clean up grease spills and splatters as soon as they happen to prevent them from setting and becoming more difficult to remove.
41. Dust regularly: Regular dusting helps prevent grease buildup on wood cabinets. Use a microfiber cloth or a feather duster to remove dust and debris.
42. Avoid abrasive materials: Avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or rough sponges, as they can scratch the wood surface.
43. Test in an inconspicuous area: Before using any cleaning method or product, test it in an inconspicuous area of the wood cabinets to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
44. Clean in gentle motions: When cleaning wood cabinets, use gentle motions to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.
45. Follow the grain: Always clean and wipe with the grain of the wood to prevent streaking or leaving behind marks.
46. Use a toothbrush and some toothpaste: For hard-to-reach areas or intricate details on wood cabinets, use a toothbrush and a little toothpaste to scrub away grease.
47. Use a soft-bristle brush: A soft-bristle brush can be used to scrub away stubborn grease spots without scratching the wood surface.
48. Wipe spills immediately: If any spills occur on your wood cabinets, wipe them up immediately to prevent grease from setting in.
49. Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning with any cleaning solution, make sure to rinse the cabinets thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
50. Dry cabinets completely: After cleaning, ensure that the cabinets are completely dry to prevent any moisture damage.
51. Use a wood conditioner: Apply a wood conditioner or furniture polish to the cabinets after cleaning to restore shine and protect the wood.
52. Remove hardware: If possible, remove cabinet hardware before cleaning to ensure a thorough clean and prevent damage to the hardware.
53. Use a toothpick: Use a toothpick to gently scrape away any dried or hardened grease from crevices or corners.
54. Apply a paste wax: Apply a thin layer of paste wax to the cabinets to provide an extra layer of protection against grease and grime.
55. Use a degreasing sponge: Look for a degreasing sponge designed specifically for wood surfaces. These sponges have a textured side for tackling tough grease stains.
56. Enzyme cleaners: Enzyme cleaners can break down and eliminate grease. Look for enzyme-based cleaners formulated for wood surfaces.
57. Avoid excessive moisture: When cleaning wood cabinets, avoid using excessive moisture as it can damage the wood. Use damp, not soaking, cloths or sponges.
58. Use a lint-free cloth: When wiping down wood cabinets, use a lint-free cloth to avoid leaving behind fibers or lint.
59. Use a natural bristle brush: A natural bristle brush can be used to apply cleaning solutions and gently scrub away grease without scratching the wood.
60. Use a steam mop: If your wood cabinets have a sealed finish, you can use a steam mop on a low setting to clean and remove grease.
61. Use a citrus peel: Rub the inside of a citrus peel (lemon, orange, or grapefruit) onto the greasy spots. The natural oils in the peel help dissolve grease.
62. Use a wood-specific cleaner: Look for a cleaner specifically formulated for wood surfaces. These cleaners are designed to be gentle on the wood while effectively removing grease.
63. Use a vinegar and oil mixture: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and olive oil in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the greasy areas and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
64. Use a melamine foam sponge: Melamine foam sponges, such as the popular brand Magic Eraser, can effectively remove grease from wood cabinets. Dampen the sponge and gently scrub the greasy spots.
65. Use a grease-cutting dish soap: Look for a dish soap specifically formulated to cut through grease. Apply a small amount to a cloth or sponge and scrub the greasy areas.
66. Use a paste made from lemon juice and salt: Mix lemon juice and salt to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
67. Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda: Mix hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean.
68. Use a mixture of white vinegar and dish soap: Mix white vinegar and dish soap in equal parts. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
69. Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar: Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Apply the solution to the greasy areas and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
70. Use a mixture of baking soda and water: Mix baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
71. Use a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide: Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean.
72. Use a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda: Mix lemon juice and baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
73. Use a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap: Mix equal parts of vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap. Apply the mixture to the greasy areas and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
74. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, and dish soap: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, and dish soap. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
75. Use a mixture of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda: Mix equal parts of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda. Apply the solution to the greasy areas and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
76. Use a mixture of dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda: Mix equal parts of dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
77. Use a mixture of lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda: Mix equal parts of lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
78. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
79. Use a mixture of vinegar, dish soap, and cornstarch: Mix equal parts of vinegar, dish soap, and cornstarch. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
80. Use a mixture of lemon juice, dish soap, and cornstarch: Mix equal parts of lemon juice, dish soap, and cornstarch. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
81. Use a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, cornstarch, and dish soap: Mix equal parts of vinegar, baking soda, cornstarch, and dish soap. Apply the mixture to the greasy areas and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
82. Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, cornstarch, and dish soap: Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, cornstarch, and dish soap. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
83. Use a mixture of lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, cornstarch, and dish soap: Mix equal parts of lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, cornstarch, and dish soap. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
84. Use a steam cleaning machine: If you have access to a steam cleaning machine, use it on a low setting to steam and remove grease from wood cabinets. Follow the machine’s instructions for use.
85. Use a citrus-based degreaser: Look for a citrus-based degreaser specifically formulated for wood surfaces. Apply the degreaser to the greasy areas and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
86. Use a commercial wood cabinet cleaner: Look for a commercial wood cabinet cleaner that is designed to remove grease. Follow the instructions on the product for best results.
87. Use a mixture of vinegar and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar and borax to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy spots, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
88. Use a mixture of lemon juice and borax: Mix lemon juice and borax to create a paste. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
89. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
90. Use a mixture of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and borax. Apply the solution to the greasy areas and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
91. Use a mixture of vinegar, dish soap, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, dish soap, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
92. Use a mixture of lemon juice, dish soap, and borax: Mix equal parts of lemon juice, dish soap, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
93. Use a mixture of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
94. Use a mixture of lemon juice, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and borax: Mix equal parts of lemon juice, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and borax. Apply the solution to the greasy areas and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
95. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, dish soap, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, dish soap, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
96. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy areas and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
97. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
98. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and cornstarch: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and cornstarch. Apply the mixture to the greasy areas and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
99. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, cornstarch, and borax: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, cornstarch, and borax. Apply the mixture to the greasy spots and scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
100. Use a mixture of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, cornstarch, borax, and baking soda: Mix equal parts of vinegar, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, cornstarch, borax, and baking soda. Apply the paste to the greasy areas, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
101. Combination method: Combine different cleaning methods mentioned above to create your own effective grease-removing solution. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your wood cabinets.

Remember, it’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using commercial cleaning products and to take precautions to protect yourself, such as wearing gloves and ensuring proper ventilation.

Cleaning and removing grease from wood cabinets may require some time and effort, but the end result will be worth it when you see your cabinets restored to their original beauty. Regular maintenance and prompt cleaning of grease spills will help prevent build-up and keep your wood cabinets looking clean and fresh for years to come.